Print Issue: November 14, 2002

"Midnight Flyer" OLM Teen Takes To The Air In Pursuit Of Pilot's Wings

By Lee McDermott - For The Bulletin

FAIRBURN--At a time when most seniors in high school are considering what gathering to attend on the weekend, Deven Kaminski, senior at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic High School, fills her mind with visions of clouds and radar. With weather reports and instrument readings. With air streams and flight patterns.

While other teens may be looking forward to the next social event; she is looking forward to stepping into an airplane and flying to New Orleans. Kaminski, 17, is a licensed pilot for single and multi-engine airplanes. She spends her weekends flying cargo for Corpjet, Inc.

"I don't get paid for my flying, but it allows me to accumulate hours in the air toward my commercial license," she said. "I leave at midnight on Friday and fly until noon the next day. I know it is not the usual teenage activity for a weekend, but I love flying."

One cannot blame Kaminski for her interest in flying. Many would consider the Kaminski family an aviation family.

"My dad is a pilot for Delta Airlines. My 20-year-old brother has his commercial license and flies the F-16 for the Air National Guard and my 14-year-old sister is a glider plane pilot. They want to fly for a commercial airline one day. To say we are into flying is an understatement," she said. "My mom is the only one that does not fly, but I think she gets enough of it with the rest of us."

Kaminski took up flying a mere two years ago. To advance so far so quickly is quite an accomplishment.

"I feel good about my accomplishments," she said, shyly. "There is only one other teenager I am aware of doing what I do. It is rewarding but it does take up most of my free time. It is not something you can go into without a total commitment. I have to balance my school schedule, my flying schedule, and my social schedule. I am still a senior in high school and I want to enjoy this time too."

Asked if she intended to follow in the footsteps of her father or dream the dreams of her siblings, Kaminski responded quickly.

"I love flying, but I know there is more to my life than that," she said. "It is a hobby I truly enjoy and I will continue flying for years to come, but sometimes I step back and see the big picture and see we have a football game on Friday and I want to go with my friends. Flying will always be there but this time in my life is special and I don't want to miss out on it."